WANTED: The Alternative Male

I had an out-of-this-world conversation with a friend today. I didn't expect the surprising twists and turns in the conversation; nevertheless, I found the entire exchange rather amusing.

The conversation with a friend went like this ...

I said: I am headed to Bangkok this weekend. Apart from work, perhaps, I may get some sightseeing done. But I really don't know what I should be doing as a single gal - should I roam the streets of Bangkok or just head straight for the shopping complex? Or God forbid, hide in my hotel room and work throughout every single waking hour of my weekend?

She said: Hey, I know a friend, who may be willing to show you around. He is a really nice guy and enjoys meeting people and showing them around. He could also take you to a really good tailor and you could get a few suits made.

I said (thinking that she was trying to set me up): Really? He wouldn't mind showing a complete stranger around?

She said: Don't worry, he's a really nice guy. Dresses really well. He's really good in terms of giving advice on which tie patterns are in and which one's out. He's also enjoys cooking and getting everyone together for a meal. ... He also would be the one to do up the interiors of the home ...

I said: Wow! Sounds like a really cool guy ...

I am thinking: WOW! He doesn't mind cooking ... and cleaning, perhaps! He also likes decorating the house. He also sounds like the perfect host! Hummmm ....

She said: Oh but I've got to warn you ... he's gay!

(Surprised and at a lost for words) I said: Gay!!!!! Does he look gay?

She said: No he doesn't. He looks Thai!

I said (somewhat laughing, amazed that I am having this conversation): Oh! No kidding! Really? He sounds like a really, really nice guy. Perhaps, a good catch for me ... he can do all the cooking, cleaning, and decorations for the home ... all the things that I don't do well or if at all ...

She said (trying to conceal her shock): And he also is a really good listener and likes to get into all the details!

I said (smiling contentedly): Cool! Happy to meet with him this weekend if he doesn't mind showing a complete stranger around. I think he will be a good match for me (wink!)

She said (trying to keep a straight face): I am sure he wouldn't mind meeting you for lunch at the very least.

I said: Yes, if he doesn't mind, I would be happy to meet with him. He doesn't need to be there the whole afternoon. If he could just point out the places to visit, things to see, and how to get there ... I am sure I would be able to fill my weekend nicely. (Grin)

Facebook Question: What is the one thing I learnt today?

Answer: My best bet for a life partner could very well be an alternative guy, who enjoys cooking, cleaning, enjoys interior decorations, fashion consultation, and enjoy the details ... generally things that I don't have time to do or don't like to do! Hahahaha!

The afterthought: Mind you, the alternative male could be someone who naturally enjoys the "finer" or "fairer" things in life - an absolutely acceptable modern male attribute. They may not be the typical macho Marlboro men as society has portrayed the "real" men to be, but that does not necessarily mean they are gay. I prefer to call them the alternative (modern) male, who are not afraid to get in touch with their emotions or seek to express himself in creative ways that used to be stereotypical attributes for females.

As for those who thrive in the corporate rat race, let us not forget that at the end of the race, we will still be rats! As "ratty" as we may be in the corporate world, we all (or at least I) desire to return to a place that exuberates peace, comfort, and love. It may not be a place where I spend all my energies trying to pull together ... that's where I think the alternative male partner would complement me and be brilliant in being who he naturally is!